OUR TEAM
OUR TEAM
OUR FASCINATING HISTORY
Come take a step back into the charm and glamour of
the late 1800s.
Finished in 1899, the Columbia building was the last building built on the first block of East State Street and has been utilized as an event venue for gatherings both large and small. Located on Redland's iconic State Street, this historic gem had been closed for use since 1948.
Speakeasy on State Event Venue opened in 2016 and offers 4000 square feet of elegance, mixed with beautiful hardwood floors, raw exposed brick, and the finest period specific details - found nowhere else in town.
Proudly representing the heartbeat of downtown Redlands, Speakeasy on State boasts two large gathering rooms, each with their own distinct feel, a bridal suite, restrooms, and a preparation kitchen. Opposite the entrance, Speakeasy on State lets out into the charming City of Redlands Umbrella Alley, perfect for outdoor socializing.
Photo by Brett & Tori Photographers
The Speakeasy Story
Karl C. Wells was a prominent businessman and banker in Redlands during the mid to late 1800s. Notably, he donated the original land for the founding of the University of Redlands in 1907.
Wells had long aspired to own a downtown business building, finally achieving this goal in 1899. While most of East State St. was developed in the late 1880s, the only structure at 10 E. State St. was the home of M. F. Pierce, which was forcibly removed due to a city fire ordinance. In 1899, Wells inaugurated his "Columbia" building, which first housed Meserve’s Clothing Store the following year. By 1902, the Redlands City Directory recorded that the upstairs of 10 E. State St. served as a meeting lodge for the Knights of Pythias, a fraternal organization founded during the American Civil War.
By the late 1930s, the building hosted a chapter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. The City of Redlands leased the VFW hall for community dances and as a recreation center, continuing this use through the 1940s.
After World War II ended in 1945, the VFW relocated, and records of the building's use during this period are sparse.
In 2012, the building was purchased and the second floor was meticulously restored with some modern updates. It is believed that during the Prohibition Era (1922-1933), the upstairs portion of 10 E. State St. operated as a speakeasy (an illegal drinking spot).
Today, the historic charm of Speakeasy on State is preserved, complete with a red light that signaled customers to hide alcohol. Additionally, the pocket door leading into The Ballroom features two holes: the upper one was used to view anyone seeking access, while the lower hole was used for a weapon to ensure there was no trouble. Now, this beautifully restored venue serves as a vibrant location for a wide array of events. Speakeasy on State hosts weddings, birthday parties, corporate events, bridal and baby showers, church services, game nights, galas, and much more. Its rich history and unique features provide an unforgettable backdrop for any occasion, seamlessly blending the past with the present.
Uniform rank of the Knights of Pythias photographed in front of Smiley Library 1902.